How would I go about seeing an opthamologist? Do you have to see a general practitioner first and get a referral or can you make an appointment directly with the opthamologist?

Thanks

Some health insurance policies (generally HMO's) require you to see a primary care physician before seeing a specialist. Some might require you to be referred to an ophthalmologist by an optometrist.

Other than that, if an ophthalmologist (or other doctor) has a very busy practice, it might be "closed" to new patients without a recommendation of some sort.

And then there's the receptionists who just always ask anyone, "Did someone recommend you?" in a voice that makes you wish you had close friends in high places.